14 October 1944

14 October 1944 Dispute over Channel Islands food policy

Miscellaneous. Channel Islands supply situation. A report from the naval commander on a discussion with Commander, Channel Islands, again confirms their differing views about the course to be followed for future food supply of troops and population. The island commander appears more optimistic than circumstances justify. In particular, he seems to expect negotiations with the Red Cross to result in Britain feeding the civilian population.

Because of his favourable view of the islands’ food situation, troops are still fed at ration scale 2. During the discussion the naval commander gained the impression that the commander intends to declare the emergency under the Hague Regulations only after exhausting his own stocks. The naval commander believes civilian stocks should be drawn upon now and troop rations simultaneously reduced to the lowest possible scale. In his view present food management will soon cause a shortage detrimental to the garrison’s endurance, especially since convoy losses, enemy damage and other losses must be allowed for. Earlier differences over coal, oil and petrol management appear resolved.

General Graf Schmettow may not be the suitable person to command the Channel Islands. Earlier reports suggested that his staff’s long posting there adversely affected treatment of the islanders and that a change would be appropriate. But the report of this further discussion contains no tangible grounds on which to base a request for his replacement.

A report is sent to Commander-in-Chief West on the differing views of the island commander and naval commander concerning supply policy, requesting examination and, if necessary, amendment of existing orders on the troops’ ration scale. Closed for 14 October 1944.

T-1022 Roll 4008; PG 37611 | Frame 0438; original pages 7462, 7463; PG 37611 | Frame 0439 left, page 7464. Extract from T1022_R4008_English_Translation.docx.